Monday, March 14, 2016

In the News

It is exciting when an OT graduate in a new position assists clients in developing a program initiative and it then gets showcased on the news. Such is the case with Sylvia Tsang and members of Potential Place in Calgary that were highlighted on Global television for using broadcast news to help people with mental illness.

Sylvia and a student partner were placed at Potential Place clubhouse for their 3rd fieldwork experience, OCCTH 527. As there is no Occupational Therapist on site, this setting is considered a role-emerging placement or, as we at the University of Alberta (U of A) term them, an Independent Community Placement (ICP). Daily on-site supervision is provided by one of the professional staff there and weekly OT supervision is provided by one of the clinical educators from the U of A. The benefits of using ICPs as a placement is that they foster opportunities for reflection, independence, self-direction, personal growth and professional growth of students. To date, Potential Place has partnered with the U of A in having 3 sets of students complete their OT placements. The role of OT is so appreciated that Sylvia was able to be hired as a Mental Health Worker following her graduation from the program. She continues to use her OT skills and lens to support the members of Potential Place to meet their goals for a productive life. As well, she is striving to create an official OT position with the clubhouse.

Who knows what opportunities may be developed and highlighted when offering placements!